Dwarf Hackberry is an uncommon to rare shrub or small tree of rocky habitats, most common over basic rock. Common Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis) is similar, but is a larger tree generally found in wetter areas that has slightly narrower leaves that are more regularly toothed at the base. Dwarf Hackberry are often cordate (heart-shaped) at the base, while those of Common Hackberry usually are not.

Caswell Co., NC 5/30/10.

The leaves are much broader, more heavily toothed, and more sandpapery above than Sugarberry (Celtis laevigata), which is a common large tree of wet habitats.

Caswell Co., NC 5/30/10.

Same leaf as in photo above, with my hand for scale. The leaves on saplings like this can be fairly large.

Caswell Co., NC 5/30/10.

Some leaves may be completely untoothed, while other leaves on the same plant may be toothed halfway to the base or more.

Granville Co., NC 5/16/09.

Three species of butterflies feed on the leaves as larvae: Hackberry Emperor, Tawny Emperor, and American Snout.

Granville Co., NC 6/4/05.

Unripe drupes.

Granville Co., NC 6/4/05.

Bark detail of a 2 meter tall shrub. This shrub was growing at an angle, reaching towards the light.

Detail of the warty bark of medium-sized tree.

Orange Co., NC 8/24/05.